Taiwo, professionally known as Tay or Chairwoman Tay, has solidified her reputation as a formidable force in the design world through her latest venture, the Iketa project. An award-winning copywriter, Taiwo uses this project to exemplify her creative philosophy, which centers on delivering design excellence to women-focused industries such as fashion, wellness, and beauty. Iketa’s branding stands as a testament to this vision.
The name Iketa, meaning "the third" in Yoruba, anchors the brand deeply in Nigerian cultural heritage. This choice is more than symbolic; it serves as the foundation of the project’s entire visual identity. Taiwo leverages this heritage to ensure every design choice conveys authenticity while remaining accessible to a global audience.
In a conversation with Tay, she shared, “The more interesting story about Iketa, beyond women standing out, is that it was created by a third sibling. Tay also expressed her broader vision: “I want to change how women-owned businesses approach design. While there’s still a long journey ahead, I hope the beauty and wellness industries here can achieve incredible progress in design, similar to what the tech industry has accomplished. This is very important to me.”
A defining feature of the Iketa project is Taiwo’s signature super-maximalist style, visible in the vibrant patterns and bold logo design. Rejecting minimalism, she embraces a rich, layered visual approach that captivates viewers and invites closer inspection. The logo itself serves as a modern totem for the brand, symbolizing the strength and presence Iketa aims to empower in its wearers. Through intricate linework and purposeful spacing, Taiwo crafts a mark that is both an artistic masterpiece and a compelling corporate identity, setting a new benchmark for contemporary brand design.
Taiwo’s background as a former copywriter at X3M Ideas equips her with a unique advantage in the design industry. This dual expertise enables her to weave complex narratives into her visual creations, ensuring her designs are not only visually striking but also strategically and narratively compelling. Her experience in the demanding advertising arena has sharpened her ability to deliver clear, impactful messages by blending words and imagery seamlessly. Currently, Taiwo works at Beauty Hut, where she is dedicated to elevating design standards in the beauty and skincare sectors, demonstrating that femininity and women-owned businesses can thrive with exceptional design.
